Language Talent Programme - Registration of Interest

Language Talent Programme – Registration of Interest

Program Home: Cheltenham, Manchester, London

Closing Date: 23:00 on Sunday 26th July 2026

GCHQ and MI5 form part of the UK’s Intelligence Services, safeguarding Britain’s people, interests and businesses from a range of threats. The 11‑week Language Talent Programme offers a paid pathway to a permanent specialist role in Russian or Mandarin.

Participants receive intensive training, real‑time operational exposure, and support from experienced linguists. Successful completion leads to a full‑time Language Specialist role within GCHQ or MI5.

• Programme start date: September 2027
• Duration: 11 weeks, full‑time (36–37 hours per week, inclusive of mandatory training)
• Salary: £6,380 to £7,059 depending on location
• Locations: Russian – GCHQ Manchester or Cheltenham, or MI5 London;
  Mandarin – GCHQ Cheltenham or Manchester
• Relocation: Loan available for moves to London
• Training phases: Three‑day induction; analysis and translation of operational intelligence; assessment and transition to full‑time role

• Complete a three‑day induction covering ways of working at GCHQ or MI5.
• Analyse, transcribe, and translate a range of audio and written materials under mentor supervision.
• Collaborate within a team that shares a passion for language.
• Develop skills to pass the language test component of the full‑time role assessment, with support from an experienced linguist.
• By week 7–9, sit the language test and competency interview; success leads to direct transition into a Language Specialist role.

• A 2:2 degree or above in Russian or Mandarin, or commencement of the final year of such a degree in Autumn 2026.
• Proficiency in the chosen language and a genuine interest in a career with GCHQ or MI5.
• Ability to begin a full‑time role immediately after programme completion.

• British citizen or dual British nationality.
• Compliance with the no‑drugs policy and, if successful, acceptance of a Developed Vetting process.
• Familiarity with GCHQ and MI5 guidance on the use of AI in applications.
• All registration, application, and recruitment activities must be completed within the UK.
• Residence within commuting distance of the programme location; relocation loan available for London.

Applications for the programme will open on Monday 3 August. Prior to that, you can register your interest to receive an invitation to a virtual insight event. Choose one of the following session times:

• Thursday 30 July at 1.30 pm
• Thursday 30 July at 6 pm

Registering interest does not equate to a job application. A separate application must be submitted once the official application window opens. All applications are assessed solely on merit.